21 endocrine and reproductive system prefixes

eu-: Good, normal 

Example: Euthyroid: A state in which the thyroid gland functions normally, producing the right levels of thyroid hormones necessary for metabolism and growth.

hyper-: Above, excessive 

hypo-: Below, under, deficient 

 oxy-: Rapid, sharp, acid 

• Example: Oxytocin: A hormone released by the pituitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth and the release of milk during breastfeeding.

• Example: Panhypopituitarism: A condition in which the pituitary gland fails to produce or secretes all of its hormones

para-: Around, beside, beyond, abnormal 

Example: Parathyroid: Small glands located beside the thyroid gland, responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood and bone metabolism.

poly-: Many or much 

syn-: Joined, together 

Example: Synergistic hormones: Hormones that work together to amplify their effects, such as insulin and growth hormone in promoting cell growth.

tetr-: Four

Example: Tetralogy of Fallot: A condition involving four congenital heart defects that may indirectly affect endocrine function due to oxygenation issues.

tri-: Three 

Example: Triiodothyronine (T3): A thyroid hormone that contains three iodine atoms and plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and energy levels.

a-: Absence of, without 

Example Azoospermia: The absence of sperm in semen, which can cause male infertility and may result from blockages or testicular failure.

 an-: Absence of, without 

dys-: Painful, difficult

 Example Dysmenorrhea – Painful menstrual cramps, often caused by uterine contractions or underlying conditions like endometriosis.

endo-: Within

Example Endometritis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium), often caused by infection or retained tissue after childbirth or miscarriage.

epi-: Above 

Example Epidural: Pertaining to the area upon or above the dura mater of the spinal cord, commonly referring to a type of anesthesia used during childbirth to provide pain relief while allowing the patient to remain awake and alert.

hyper-: Above, excessive 

example Hypergonadism: A condition characterized by excessive activity of the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females), leading to overproduction of sex hormones, which can result in early puberty, menstrual irregularities, or fertility issues.

hypo-: Below 

Example Hypogonadism: Reduced function of the gonads (testes or ovaries), leading to decreased hormone production and issues like infertility or delayed puberty.

oligo-: Small amount 

• Example Oligospermia: A condition characterized by a low sperm count in semen, often contributing to male infertility.

par-: Near 

Example Parovarian cyst: A fluid-filled cyst near the ovary, usually arising from the remnants of embryonic structures.

peri-: Surrounding 

Example: Perimetrium: The outermost layer of the uterus, surrounding the uterine wall and providing structural support.

trans-: Through, across, beyond 

Example Transvaginal ultrasound: An imaging procedure where a probe is inserted through the vaginal canal to obtain detailed images of reproductive organs like the uterus and ovaries

38 endocrine and reproductive system sufixs

-drome: Run, running together 

Example: Syndrome: A group of symptoms or signs that occur together, such as Cushing’s syndrome, which results from excessive cortisol production by the adrenal glands.

-ectomy: Excision, cut out 

Example: Thyroidectomy: Surgical removal of the thyroid gland, often performed to treat conditions such as hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, or goiters.

-emia: Condition of the blood 

Example: Hyperglycemia: High levels of glucose in the blood, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus and requiring careful monitoring and management.

-ism: State of 

• Example: Hypothyroidism: A state of underactive thyroid function, resulting in reduced production of thyroid hormones and symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance.

itis: Inflammation 

Example: Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which may result from autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or infections.

-logist: Specialist who studies and treats 

Example: Endocrinologist: A medical specialist who studies and treats disorders of the endocrine system, such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, and hormonal imbalances.

-logy: Study of 

Example: Endocrinology: The study of the endocrine system, including the glands, hormones, and their related diseases.

-megaly: Enlarged, enlargement 

Example: Acromegaly: Abnormal enlargement of extremities caused by excessive growth hormone secretion from the pituitary gland in adulthood.

-oid: Resembling 

Example: Adrenoid: Resembling the adrenal glands in shape or function, possibly used in anatomical studies or to describe tissue with adrenal-like characteristics.

-oma: Tumor 

Example: Insulinoma: A tumor of the pancreas that produces excessive amounts of insulin, often leading to episodes of hypoglycemia.

-pathy: Disease 

Example: Adenopathy: A disease or enlargement of glandular tissue, such as in swollen lymph nodes or glandular dysfunction in the endocrine system.

-plasia: Condition of, formation, development, growth 

Example: Hyperplasia: Excessive growth or formation of cells within an endocrine gland, such as adrenal hyperplasia, which can affect hormone production.

-tomy: Incision, cut into 

Example: Adrenalotomy: A surgical incision into the adrenal gland, often performed to remove a tumor or investigate gland abnormalities.

-al: Pertaining to 

Example Vaginal: Pertaining to the vagina, as in vaginal delivery, which refers to childbirth through the birth canal.

-algia: Pain 

Example Orchidalgia: Pain in one or both testicles. The pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe and may be acute (sudden) or chronic (lasting for a longer time).

-ar: Pertaining to 

Example Seminiferous: Pertaining to the production of semen, such as in seminiferous tubules found in the testes.

-atresia: Occlusion, closure 

Example Vaginal atresia: Congenital closure or absence of the vaginal canal, which may require surgical correction.

-cision: Process of cutting 

Example Incision: A surgical cut made during procedures, such as a cesarean section (C-section).

-cleisis: Surgical closure 

Example Colpocleisis: Surgical closure of the vaginal canal, often performed to treat uterine prolapse in elderly patients who are not sexually active.

-ectomy: Excision or surgical removal 

Example Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, commonly performed to treat fibroids, cancer, or severe uterine bleeding.

-genesis: Beginning, development, or production 

Example Spermatogenesis: The production and development of sperm in the testes.

-gram: Record 

Example Hysterosalpingogram: A radiographic image of the uterus and fallopian tubes, used to assess fertility or detect blockages.

-graphy: Process of recording 

Example Mammography: The process of obtaining X-ray images of the breasts to screen for abnormalities such as tumors.

-ia: Diseased state, abnormal state, condition of 

Example Amenorrhea: The absence of menstrual periods, which can result from hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions.

 -ic: Pertaining to 

Example Pelvic: Pertaining to the pelvis, as in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the reproductive organs.

-ic: Pertaining to 

Example Pelvic: Pertaining to the pelvis, as in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the reproductive organs.

-ism: State of, condition 

Example Cryptorchidism: A condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum, often requiring surgical correction.

-itis: Inflammation

-logy: Study of 

Example Gynecology: The study of the female reproductive system, including its disorders and diseases.

-lysis: Loosening, dissolution, separating 

Example Adhesiolysis: The surgical removal of adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that can form in the pelvic region and affect fertility.

-oma: Tumor, mass 

Example Teratoma: A type of tumor composed of tissues from different germ layers, often found in the ovaries or testes.

-ous: Pertaining to 

Example Gravidous: Pertaining to pregnancy, often used in terms like multigravidous (having had multiple pregnancies).

-pathy: Disease 

Example Endometriopathy: Disease of the endometrium, which may lead to abnormal uterine bleeding or infertility.

-pexy: Surgical fixation, suspension 

Example Oophoropexy: Surgical fixation of an ovary, often performed to prevent ovarian torsion

-plasia: Development, growth 

 -plasty: Surgical repair 

Example Vaginoplasty: Surgical repair or reconstruction of the vagina, often performed for congenital abnormalities or after trauma.

Example Menorrhagia: Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding, which may result from uterine fibroids or hormonal imbalances.

-rrhea: Flow, discharge 

Example Leukorrhea: A white or yellowish vaginal discharge, often indicating an infection or hormonal changes.

55 endocrine and reproductive system root words

aden/o: Gland 

Example Adenoma: A benign tumor of an endocrine gland, such as a pituitary adenoma, which can affect hormone production and cause symptoms like vision problems or hormonal imbalances.

adren/o, adrenal/o: Adrenal glands 

Example Adrenalectomy: Surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands, often performed to treat adrenal tumors or excessive hormone secretion.

calc/i: Calcium 

Example Hypercalcemia: An elevated level of calcium in the blood, often caused by overactivity of the parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism).

cortic/o: Cortex, outer layer of a body organ 

Example Corticosteroids: Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, such as cortisol, which play roles in stress response, immune regulation, and metabolism.

dips/o: Thirst 

example Polydipsia: Excessive thirst, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus due to hormonal imbalances affecting water regulation.

endocrin/o: Endocrine 

Example Endocrinopathy: A disease or disorder affecting the endocrine system, including the glands and hormones that regulate bodily functions.

glyc/o: Sugar 

Example Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels, a hallmark of diabetes mellitus caused by insufficient insulin production or action.

home/o: Sameness 

Example Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body, such as balanced hormone levels to regulate metabolism and growth.

kal/i: Potassium 

Example Hypokalemia: A condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can result from adrenal dysfunction such as hyperaldosteronism.

myx/o: Mucus 

Example Myxedema: Severe hypothyroidism characterized by swelling and deposits of mucus-like substances in the skin, often affecting the face and extremities.

natr/o: Sodium

 Example Hyponatremia: A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, which can result from hormonal imbalances such as adrenal insufficiency.

parathyroid/o: Parathyroid gland 

Example Parathyroidectomy: Surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands, often performed to treat hyperparathyroidism and manage calcium imbalances.

pituitar/o: Pituitary gland 

Example Pituitarism: Any disorder of the pituitary gland, such as hypopituitarism, which results in decreased hormone production and widespread endocrine effects.

somat/o: Body 

Example Somatotropin: A growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and cell reproduction.

thyr/o, thyroid/o: Thyroid gland 

Example Thyrotoxicosis: A condition caused by excessive thyroid hormone levels, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and tremors.

andr/o: Male 

Example Androgen: A group of male sex hormones, including testosterone, responsible for the development of male characteristics such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle mass. Androgens also play roles in libido, bone density, and reproductive health in both males and females.

arche/o: First, beginning 

Example Menarche: The first occurrence of menstruation, marking the onset of reproductive capability in females.

balan/o: Glans penis 

Example Balanitis: Inflammation of the glans penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections, or irritants.

cervic/o: Cervix 

Example Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, often caused by infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.

colp/o: Vagina 

Example Colposcopy: A visual examination of the vagina and cervix using a specialized magnifying instrument to detect abnormalities.

crypt/o: Hidden 

Example Cryptomenorrhea: A condition where menstrual blood is produced but cannot exit the body due to an obstruction, most commonly an imperforate hymen. It causes pelvic pain without visible menstruation and typically requires a minor surgical procedure to restore normal menstrual flow.

endometri/o: Endometrium 

Example Endometriosis: A condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and potential infertility.

epididym/o: Epididymis 

Example Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm.

episi/o: Vulva

 Example Episiotomy: A surgical incision made in the vulva to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth.

gonad/o: Gonad 

Example The surgical removal of the gonads (testes in males or ovaries in females). This procedure is performed to treat conditions such as gonadal cancer, hormone-sensitive cancers like breast or prostate cancer, or as part of gender-affirming surgeries.

gyn/o, gynec/o: Woman 

Example Gynecomastia: A condition in males characterized by the enlargement of breast tissue, giving a female-like appearance. It is often caused by hormonal imbalances, medications, or underlying health conditions and can occur during puberty or in adulthood.

hemat/o: Blood 

Example Hematosalpinx: The presence of blood in the fallopian tube, often associated with ectopic pregnancy or trauma.

Example Hymenotomy: A surgical procedure to remove or open the hymen, often performed to address issues like imperforate hymen.

hyster/o: Uterus 

Example Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, often performed to treat fibroids, uterine cancer, or severe bleeding.

Example Leukoplakia: The formation of white patches on mucous membranes, such as the vulva in reproductive health. Vulvar leukoplakia can cause discomfort and may sometimes be precancerous, requiring further medical evaluation

Example Mammogram: An X-ray image of the breast used to screen for abnormalities such as lumps or tumors.

men/o: Menstruation 

Example Mnopause: The cessation of menstruation, marking the end of reproductive capability in women.

metr/i: Uterus 

oophor/o: Ovary 

Example Oophorectomy: Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, often performed to treat ovarian cancer or cysts.

orch/o, orchi/o, orchid/o: Testis, testicle 

Example: Orchiectomy – Surgical removal of one or both testicles, often performed to treat testicular cancer.

calc/i: Calcium 

Example Hypercalcemia: An elevated level of calcium in the blood, often caused by overactivity of the parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism).

cortic/o: Cortex, outer layer of a body organ 

dips/o: Thirst 

Example Polydipsia: Excessive thirst, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus due to hormonal imbalances affecting water regulation.

endocrin/o: Endocrine 

Example Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels, a hallmark of diabetes mellitus caused by insufficient insulin production or action.

home/o: Sameness 

Example Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body, such as balanced hormone levels to regulate metabolism and growth.

kal/i: Potassium 

Example Hypokalemia: A condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can result from adrenal dysfunction such as hyperaldosteronism.

• myx/o: Mucus

•  Example Myxedema: Severe hypothyroidism characterized by swelling and deposits of mucus-like substances in the skin, often affecting the face and extremities.

• Example Hyponatremia: A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, which can result from hormonal imbalances such as adrenal insufficiency.

• pituitar/o: Pituitary gland

 Example Pituitarism: Any disorder of the pituitary gland, such as hypopituitarism, which results in decreased hormone production and widespread endocrine effects.

somat/o: Body 

Example Somatotropin: A growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and cell reproduction.

thyr/o, thyroid/o: Thyroid gland 

andr/o: Male 

Example Androgen: A group of male sex hormones, including testosterone, responsible for the development of male characteristics such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle mass. Androgens also play roles in libido, bone density, and reproductive health in both males and females.

arche/o: First, beginning 

Example Menarche: The first occurrence of menstruation, marking the onset of reproductive capability in females.

balan/o: Glans penis 

• Example Balanitis: Inflammation of the glans penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections, or irritants.

cervic/o: Cervix 

• Example Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix, often caused by infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.

colp/o: Vagina 

• Example Colposcopy: A visual examination of the vagina and cervix using a specialized magnifying instrument to detect abnormalities.

• crypt/o: Hidden 

• Example Cryptomenorrhea: A condition where menstrual blood is produced but cannot exit the body due to an obstruction, most commonly an imperforate hymen. It causes pelvic pain without visible menstruation and typically requires a minor surgical procedure to restore normal menstrual flow.

34 endocrine and reproductive system abbreviations, acronyms, and eponyms

ALD = Aldosterone

• A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure and balance electrolytes by promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion.

ACTH = Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

• A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, which helps regulate stress, metabolism, and immune response.

ADH = Antidiuretic Hormone

• A hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland that regulates water balance in the body by reducing urine production and increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys.

DKA = Diabetic Ketoacidosis

• A serious complication of diabetes where the body produces high levels of blood acids (ketones) due to insufficient insulin, often accompanied by high blood sugar levels and dehydration.

DM = Diabetes Mellitus

• A group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from either insufficient insulin production (type 1) or resistance to insulin (type 2).

EPI, Epi = Epinephrine

• A hormone and neurotransmitter, also known as adrenaline, produced by the adrenal glands to prepare the body for the "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate, blood flow, and energy availability.

FBS = Fasting Blood Sugar

• A test that measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast to help diagnose diabetes or monitor blood sugar control.

FSH = Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a critical role in reproductive processes, including the maturation of eggs in females and the production of sperm in males.

GD = Graves’ Disease

• An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to overproduction of thyroid hormones.

HGH = Human Growth Hormone

• A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in the body, particularly during childhood and adolescence.

LADA = Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults

• A form of type 1 diabetes that develops more slowly and typically occurs in adults, often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes due to its gradual onset.

OGTT = Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

• A test that measures blood sugar levels before and after drinking a glucose-containing solution to diagnose diabetes or gestational diabetes.

RAI = Radioactive Iodine Treatment 

• A therapy using radioactive iodine to destroy overactive thyroid cells, commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer.

TSH = Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone

• A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) by stimulating the thyroid gland.

Addison's Disease Named After

A condition caused by adrenal insufficiency, leading to reduced production of cortisol and aldosterone. Symptoms include fatigue, hyperpigmentation, low blood pressure, and weight loss.

ushing's Syndrome

• Named After: 

• Harvey Cushing, an American neurosurgeon.

A disorder caused by excessive cortisol levels, often due to a pituitary adenoma or long-term corticosteroid use. Symptoms include moon face, central obesity, purple striae, and hypertension.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Named After: 

• Hakaru Hashimoto, a Japanese physician.

An autoimmune disorder leading to hypothyroidism due to chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and dry skin.

Islets of Langerhans

• Named After: Paul Langerhans, a German pathologist.

Clusters of endocrine cells in the pancreas that secrete insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. Dysfunction can lead to diabetes mellitus or other metabolic disorders.

AMN = Amniocentesis

• A diagnostic procedure in which a needle is inserted into the amniotic sac to collect amniotic fluid, often used to detect chromosomal abnormalities or infections during pregnancy.

BV = Bacterial Vaginosis

A common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria of the vagina, often resulting in unusual discharge, odor, and irritation.

C-section = Cesarean Section

• A surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the abdomen and uterus, often performed when a vaginal delivery is unsafe.

HRT = Hormone Replacement Therapy

• A treatment involving supplemental hormones, typically estrogen and/or progesterone, used to alleviate symptoms of menopause or hormonal imbalances.

HPV = Human Papillomaviruses

• A group of viruses that can cause genital warts and are associated with cervical cancer, as well as other types of cancer in both men and women.

HYS = Hysteroscopy

• A minimally invasive procedure in which a thin, lighted scope is inserted into the uterus through the vagina to examine the uterine cavity and treat abnormalities.

UD = Intrauterine Device

• A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus for long-term contraception, available in hormonal and non-hormonal (copper) types.

NICU = Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

A specialized unit in a hospital that provides intensive care to premature or critically ill newborns.

PID = Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to infertility if untreated.

PMS = Premenstrual Syndrome

A group of symptoms, including mood swings, bloating, and irritability, that occur in the days leading up to menstruation.

STIs, STDs= Sexually Transmitted Infections or Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Infections transmitted through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.

Bartholin's Glands

Named After: Caspar Bartholin the Younger, a Danish anatomist.

Paired glands located on either side of the vaginal opening that secrete mucus to lubricate the vulva. Infections of these glands can result in Bartholin's cysts or abscesses, causing pain and swelling in the vulvar region.

Cowper's Glands

Named After: William Cowper, an English anatomist.

Also known as the bulbourethral glands, they are small glands in males that produce a pre-ejaculate fluid to neutralize acidity in the urethra. These glands play a role in enhancing sperm viability during ejaculation and reducing damage to sperm caused by residual urine.

ALD = Aldosterone

A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure and balance electrolytes by promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion.

ACTH = Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, which helps regulate stress, metabolism, and immune response.

ADH = Antidiuretic Hormone

A hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland that regulates water balance in the body by reducing urine production and increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys.

DKA = Diabetic Ketoacidosis

A serious complication of diabetes where the body produces high levels of blood acids (ketones) due to insufficient insulin, often accompanied by high blood sugar levels and dehydration.